Seoul: Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized on Sunday that South Korea and the United States face "no major issues" in expediting the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON). He noted that the allies have made "significant progress" in meeting the agreed conditions necessary for the transition.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn made these remarks prior to his departure for Washington, where he is set to engage in talks with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The discussions, scheduled for Monday (U.S. time), are part of Seoul's efforts to regain wartime command of its troops from the U.S. before the end of President Lee Jae Myung's term in 2030.
Ahn highlighted that South Korean and U.S. officials had made notable progress in 2015 regarding the wartime OPCON transfer under a conditions-based agreement. He assured reporters at Incheon International Airport that preparations for the transition have been ongoing in a systematic and consistent manner, alleviating concerns over any major issues in accelerating the process.
The issue arises amid differing views between the allies, with Seoul reportedly aiming for a 2028 transition, while the Trump administration remains in office. Last month, U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Xavier Brunson told Congress that both countries aim to meet the conditions required for the transfer by the first quarter of 2029, casting doubt on the readiness of the transition post-Trump's term, which concludes on January 20, 2029.
Ahn mentioned that setting a target year for the wartime OPCON transfer will be a key agenda item in his discussions with the U.S. counterpart. At the previous annual consultative meeting between the defense chiefs, both sides agreed to finalize the second phase of the road map for the OPCON transfer and to determine a target year for the transition at their next meeting.
Regarding Seoul's interest in nuclear-powered submarines, Ahn emphasized the need for follow-up actions as agreed by the leaders during their summit talks in October. He stated that South Korea possesses significant submarine-related capabilities, and with U.S. support on the fuel side, progress could be made without major difficulties.
When asked if negotiations on nuclear-powered submarines might commence before the end of the first half, Ahn replied affirmatively, expressing confidence in the bilateral military cooperation to resolve any arising challenges. He reiterated the commitment to fulfilling the leaders' agreements and strengthening the cooperation between South Korea and the U.S. to achieve their shared objectives.